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Monthly Archives: August 2013

Our design entrepreneur Marcia Budet has an interesting story to tell on how she started her business. Her inspirational story proves that so much can happen in just a year. And, like our other spotlights, you’ll get to read her fun fact.

Can you tell us about your line?

It is an international award winning line offering creative and innovative fine jewelry, directly influenced by our architectural training. Our collections are made in 18k gold and/or sterling silver with precious and semi precious stones and we also do custom work. We redefine effortless elegance and our work inspires women to embrace sophistication with an edge.

When did you start your line?

2010

Why did you start it?

It was almost a happy accident. I was looking to buy a double ring for myself, but could not find one I really liked, so I decided to design it myself. A colleague saw the piece, sent me a link to an international design competition in Italy and encouraged me to submit my design. I did – and a year later I was at the Gala in Lake Como receiving a Golden Award for it. After that, clients started approaching me and I recognized it to be a business opportunity worth exploring.

What’s your brand signature?

Sophisticated boldness

Asymmetrics + Diamonds, which is the first piece I designed and won an award in Italy.

Why did you apply to DENYC?

Because I knew I would greatly benefit from it. Learning from fellow designers and the training offered have surpassed my expectations.

What do you hope to get out of the program?

New friends, new skills and lots of fun.

Best part of being a NYC designer?

Access to a great variety of suppliers and raw material, great networking, and inspiration overload.

Alexa Galler’s line Eighteenth started as t-shirts. 6 to be exact. Over time, it’s evolved into a full ready-to-wear line. Her pieces re-imagine basics and she’s keen on changing the shape and details of classic garments. You’ll see this through construction details in her dreamy sweaters, tops and outerwear.

So why Design Entrepreneurs NYC? She told us, “I want to learn how to approach my line more like a business than as an art project.” And, she said that the the best part of being a NYC designer is that everyone in this business is a character.

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